The past several months have truly been an exciting, roller coaster journey. My husband and I kicked off the end of 2017 by selling our house in two days. Yes, it really did happen! 

A month later, we had moved into my childhood home -- big thanks to my parents who also moved at the same time and graciously lent us a home to stay in. Two months later, I received the incredible news I had been selected as the new executive director for the Lenoir/Greene United Way.

As I am writing this column, we are preparing another move to our forever home on the family farm. Some of you reading this will probably think, “This girl has lost her marbles.” But honestly, I would not have it any other way. We are so blessed and though this journey has been a very hectic one, we are so grateful for it.

All the moving aside, my biggest journey has been stepping into the awesome shoes of June Cummings as the leader of our United Way. I have much to learn and I can’t keep the schools of idea fish from swimming in my head at night when lying down to go to sleep -- but oh, how I have wanted an opportunity like this! 

I had reached a point in my career where I knew it was time to leap. It’s scary leaving something you know and love so much but I’ve always been one to challenge myself.

I have also been blessed throughout my career with mentors. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it had not been for the folks in my life who care not only about me but for me. Family, friend, professional colleague – they are true-blue, dependable, faithful. I hope they all know how much their support means to me and I will do my very best to make them proud!

A lot of the work I have done and will continue to do has been community-driven. Nothing excites me more than to work collaboratively on a project where the outcome brings quality and purpose. 

There is so, so much good in our community. Great people, tons of talent but most importantly, lots of heart. We care. It is evident in happy times and it is profound when times get tough. As you read this, take this in: the greatest impact is "we." 

We, as a community, forge our path. We, as a community, lift each other up to our greatest potential. We, as a community, design the journey of our lives together. This message kept speaking to me when I first started at United Way and so, our theme for the year is “We can do it together.” At United Way, we truly believe in this. 

To close, I would just like to send best wishes to the students returning to school and the amazing teachers out there -- you rock! Thank you to all who have helped me transition into my new role; I am forever appreciative. 

And since I am a cheerleader by default, I will end with this: Every investment is great, whether it is time or monetary. Give with your heart and love your community. After all, every impact we each make impacts our community as a whole. 

We can do it together.

Molly Taylor is a native of Kinston, Lenoir County and the executive director of Lenoir/Greene United Way. She is a seasoned publicist with more than 17 years of experience promoting education initiatives and media relations and is a very active member in the Kinston community. She is married to Jimmy Taylor and they have a 9-year-old son, Jonas.  To connect with Molly, please email: director@lenoircouw.org.